Magnetic Force on
a current carrying wire

The Magnetic Force on a Current-Carrying Wire

When a wire with an electric current passes through a magnetic field, it experiences a force. This happens because a current is simply a collection of moving charged particles, and we know that a single charged particle experiences a force in a magnetic field. The total magnetic force on the wire is the sum of the forces on all the individual charges moving within it. This is the fundamental principle behind how electric motors work! ⚡

I can certainly do that. Here is the context, equation, and a picture for the magnetic force on a current-carrying wire.

The Magnetic Force on a Current-Carrying Wire

When a wire with an electric current passes through a magnetic field, it experiences a force. This happens because a current is simply a collection of moving charged particles, and we know that a single charged particle experiences a force in a magnetic field. The total magnetic force on the wire is the sum of the forces on all the individual charges moving within it. This is the fundamental principle behind how electric motors work! ⚡

The Equation and the Right-Hand Rule

The magnitude of this force is given by the equation:

F=ILBsin(θ)

Where:

• F is the magnetic force, measured in Newtons (N).

• I is the electric current in the wire, measured in Amperes (A).

• L is the length of the wire that is inside the magnetic field, measured in meters (m).

• B is the strength of the magnetic field, measured in Teslas (T).

• θ is the angle between the direction of the current and the magnetic field.

You can determine the direction of the force using the Right-Hand Rule.

1. Point your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field (B).

2. Point your thumb in the direction of the current (I).

3. Your palm will push in the direction of the force (F).